Sinn Féin - On Your Side

Sinn Féin demand re-design of busy Downpatrick road junction

Sinn Féin councillor South Down MLA Willie Clarke has called on Roads
Service to reconsider the design of the junction where the Belfast and
Ballynahinch Roads meet.

Mr Clarke made his comments after receiving numerous complaints about the
safety of the junction which he said has recently been redesigned.

Calling for the new design to be reconsidered, the Sinn Féin representative
said:

"The junction is located on a particularly dangerous and fast section of the
Belfast Road.

"The complaints I am receiving revolve around the length of the slowing lane
from the Downpatrick direction to allow drivers to turn left onto the
Ballynahinch Road. Because of the short distance of this lane cars are
slowing down while still on the main carriageway.

"There is no excuse for excess speed and drivers do need to show extra care
at this double junction.

"Nonetheless, it is clear that the short distance of the slowing lane is
disrupting the easy flow of traffic, particularly during commuting times.

"With such a short slowing lane it can predicted that there will be
accidents here in the future. I will be in touch with Roads Service to have
the design of the double junction reconsidered." ENDS